Week One: Spinach

Spinach is susceptible of receiving all imprints:
it is the virgin wax of the kitchen.
Grimod de la Reynière
When asked to name a leafy green, odds are spinach is the first that comes to mind for most people. The popularity of spinach is rooted in its mild flavor, as well as its texture, which is crisp but not fibrous like some other greens, such as kale.

Low in calories and a great source of dietary iron, spinach is also an incredibly versatile ingredient, mixing well with both sweet and savory elements. Whether a base for a salad or smoothie, tossed up with pasta, or chopped and combined with vegetables, tofu, meat, or cheese, cooking with spinach is a delicious way to add nutrients to your diet.

Several of our delicious recipes featuring spinach will be posted throughout this week. Try them for yourselves and leave us some comments, letting us know what you think!

What is your favorite way to eat spinach?

The next challenge ingredient will be ... strawberries! If you would like to submit a recipe to be featured on this site next week, send the recipe (plus a picture of the prepared dish!) to theintrepidchefs@gmail.com by midnight on Saturday, August 20.